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Roger stunned by Söderling

01.06.2010 | Tennis

Roger was upset by Sweden’s Robin Söderling at the French Open today, ending his record streak of 23 straight Grand Slam semifinals. Roger lost 6-3, 3-6, 5-7, 4-6.

Roger started well and had everything well under control in the first set. But Söderling suddenly cranked up his response and took a 2-0 lead in the second, finally winning the set as both players held serve from there. Roger had a set point in the 10th game of the third set which unfortunately he could not make use of. Play was suspended with Roger leading 30-15 due to rain. After an interruption of over an hour, Roger eventually dropped his serve and then lost the set.

Roger seemed to come back in the final set as he took a 2-0 lead. But it wasn't long before the Swede pushed forward again, breaking back and eventually wrapping up the match after 2h 30min when Roger went long with a weary return.

The last time Roger did not reach the semi-final of a Grand Slam tournament was in 2004, when he was evicted in Paris by Gustavo Kuerten. Today's defeat opens up the possibility that, should Rafael Nadal win the title, Roger will lose the top ranking just a week before equalling Pete Sampras's record of 286 weeks at number one.

Roger! don't worry...even true champions fall some times, you know that...we all know you deserve your title as the #1, not just because you are a wonderful tennis player, but because you are a wonderful person as well, that is what makes you the best.

Emperor Federer, you are the best. You have it in you to win many more slams & be remembered as the greatest sportsman of all times. Your fans adore you & support you at all times.
Cheers, Dilip Tahiliani, India

I am moved by the waves of emotion surging across your site, Roger. Love, tender care, hope and sadness and even the anger of disappointment. The year started so gloriously - you were miles ahead of everyone else not just in points but in quality of p

Soderling will take the trophy on Sunday. Reasons being 1) He has played tougher matches and has been testet against much better players (Montanes, Cilic, Federer, Berdych).2) He is ready and being at the French open final is not a new thing to him. 3) He